Institute for the Study of the Ancient World

What whispers echo from the walls of the Institute for the Study of the Ancient World? Here on East 84th Street, nestled amongst Manhattan’s bustling energy, stands a six-story limestone sentinel. This is the Institute for the Study of the Ancient World, or ISAW, a place where the past comes alive. ISAW isn’t just a museum filled with dusty artifacts. It’s a vibrant hub of scholarship, a place where the world’s leading researchers delve into the mysteries of civilizations past. Founded in 2006 by the Leon Levy Foundation, ISAW was built upon the vision of Leon Levy himself. He dreamed of an institute where scholars could explore the intricate connections between ancient cultures, tracing the threads of trade, religion, and politics that wove the world together. The Institute for the Study of the Ancient World focuses on a vast expanse of history and geography. Its reach extends from the western Mediterranean all the way to China. Within these walls, experts in the Greco-Roman world, the Ancient Near East, Egypt, Central Asia, East Asia, and more, collaborate and share their knowledge. ISAW is also a unique entity within New York University. It operates independently, with its own endowment and board of trustees, ensuring its continued dedication to the study of the ancient world. The Institute for the Study of the Ancient World also offers a PhD program, nurturing the next generation of scholars who will carry the torch of discovery into the future. In addition to its rigorous academic programs, ISAW hosts a range of public exhibitions. These exhibitions bring the ancient world to life for visitors, showcasing captivating artifacts and untold stories. From “Wine, Worship and Sacrifice: The Golden Graves of Ancient Vani” to “Time and Cosmos in Greco-Roman Antiquity,” ISAW’s exhibitions offer glimpses into fascinating cultures and bygone eras. The Institute for the Study of the Ancient World even has its own specialized research library. The library boasts an impressive 40,000 volumes, offering a wealth of knowledge to researchers and scholars. So, the next time you find yourself in New York City, take a detour to East 84th Street and experience the magic of ISAW. Listen closely, and the whispers of the past may just reveal their secrets.